a. Bed rails are needed by persons who are unconscious or sedated with drugs. Also some confused and disoriented people need them. If a person needs bed rails, keep the rails up at all times except when giving bedside nursing care.

b. Bed rails present hazards. The person can fall when trying to get out of bed. Or the person can get caught, trapped, or entangled and possibly strangled.

c. Bed rails are considered restraints. Bed rails cannot be used unless they are needed to treat a person’s medical symptoms. The person or legal representative must give consent for raised bed rails. The need for bed rails is carefully noted in the person’s medical record and the care plan. If a person uses bed rails, check the person often. Record when you checked the person and your observations.